Ayer Kuning, Tapah — The heat is rising in the Ayer Kuning by-election campaign, as grassroots sentiments among voters are becoming clearer: this time, they are determined to retaliate against the lies and empty promises of Pakatan Harapan (PH) and its allies.
Malay voters remain steadfast in their support for Perikatan Nasional (PN), rejecting the sweet promises of the Madani Government, which they believe has failed to deliver meaningful change since coming to power. Many express disappointment at the government’s inability to reduce the cost of living, stabilise the prices of essential goods, and protect the welfare of ordinary citizens.
What’s more surprising is the growing dissatisfaction among Indian and Chinese voters, who were once the backbone of support for PH, DAP, and even MCA. Now, their patience is wearing thin. They see all the promises made before the 15th General Election (GE15) and throughout this by-election campaign as nothing more than political games.
“We’re tired of false promises. They said they’d help the Indian community, protect small Chinese businesses — all forgotten after they won. Now we realise, enough is enough,” declared an Indian small trader in Ayer Kuning town.
The same frustration echoes among the Chinese community, who are increasingly angry at DAP’s failure to deliver on promises of development, education reforms, and local economic improvements. MCA, too, has been accused of colluding in the government’s hollow promises, while ordinary citizens continue to suffer.
“DAP and MCA are no different. Their campaign promises are sweet, but after they win, they go silent. We’re fed up,” said a Chinese voter we interviewed.
Netizens have also joined in, voicing their anger across social media, labelling the Madani Government as one that “throws stones and hides its hands” — showing up only when votes are needed, then vanishing without a trace after victory is secured.
Now, the Ayer Kuning by-election is no longer just about electing a new representative. It has become a battleground for the people to rise and send a loud, clear signal: “We are done with being deceived!”
All eyes are on Ayer Kuning, as this by-election will serve as a barometer of how far the rakyat, regardless of race, are willing to punish those who have betrayed the people’s trust.